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I would not spend time pitching them. Small firm, bring-your-daughter-to-work type of place, Jim G. is the only guy who makes a decision there - and you will have to suffer through an hour of his 'glory days' story. They don't understand new tech or new media.

Posted by
BTiddle
on 2010-03-04

PUBLIC:

I just pitched, and was turned down by Palomar through Kevin Jacques. I found the process quick, efficient and got a very fast not at this time because our A-round efforts and pre-product state don't fit the lifecycle of the fund. Plus, we are a digital media play, not their current investment of first-choice, as I understand it.
We dealt with Kevin Jacques. I've known Kevin since his early days at Sevin Rosen, and he had an excellent track record at the Dallas firm with successful exits at a time when things were dry for the Texas boys. Kevin is a stand-up, straight-shooter who tells things like it is in a measured, thoughtful and insightful way. But Kevin goes the extra mile to pay it forward when he really doesn't have to. He offered some excellent feedback on the play, and went even futher: Taking the time to think through other investors who might have an interest, and who might be a strategic fit. And he's going even further: Offering to make some introductions. You might not like to hear that your baby isn't pretty enough for Palomar, but grow up. Kevin is one class act. He understands venture capital, startups, what it takes to succeed, and is willing to help. I'll remember Kevin tomorrow, and ten years from now. And I'm confident he'll have an even stronger track record, and deeper, and more meaningful Rolodex. Palomar is lucky to have this asset on its team. But we'd love to have him back in Texas.

I've been happily surprised with the balance of involvement that Palomar and I / my company have been able to strike. Palomar has fully supported me and my vision for the company, allowing me to grow and develop our product without meddling or micromanagement. At the same time, they have provided valuable advice and guidance, both in regard to product functionality and our business model. Also, the introductions that they were able to provide have been invaluable for product development, advisory positions, staffing, and perhaps most importantly, additional rounds of funding.

Kevin Jacques has served as the board member, and I have found his advice to be well considered and helpful. Even when we have not seen eye to eye, we have always been able to find reasonable compromises. He respects entrepreneurs and is able to see both sides of the equation, always remaining patient, understanding and professional.

In my experience, I have always felt like we were on the same team, working for the same goal. I would recommend this fund to other entrepreneurs.

Posted by
mktgmann
on 2008-04-30

PUBLIC:

We pitched Amanda Reed and Palomar last year, and although we ended up not going with them, they were good to work with.

Palomar is a traditional small-midsized VC doing earlier stage deals. You probably should have some working product and revenue, but they also do seed stage. The partners all seem to be more of the hands-on operating types, not as many former wall-street or big name firm types.

Amanda immediately understood our business model, was very aggressive and efficient about her due diligence and getting us in front of her partnership. In fact, if anything, we had to slow them down a bit for our process.

Amanda/Palomar provided us a reasonable term sheet on both valuation and T's and C's and I would certainly recommend them to software companies who are seeking A-round funding.

I have not dealt with this firm, but I have dealt with Kevin Jacques when he was at SRF and I must say he is a real stand up guy. Very thorough and detail oriented, which at time can be tough, but he is very knowledgable and more importantly helpful with his guidance. He was a great Board member.

Posted by
Velabinder
on 2007-08-16

PUBLIC:

Quite possibly the most ill-informed venture capital person on planet Earth: Kevin Jacques. This is not intended to be mean-spirited and I have no vendetta. Just an honest word of caution. If you get passed on to him, don't waste your time.